Russian and Chinese nuclear-capable strategic bombers conducted joint patrols near the U.S. state of Alaska, prompting the U.S. and Canada to scramble fighter jets. The Russian Tu-95MS “Bear” bombers and Chinese Xi’an H-6 bombers flew over the Chukchi and Bering seas and the North Pacific, with both countries cooperating during the mission. The aircraft were accompanied by Russian Su-30SM and Su-35S fighters and were intercepted by U.S. and Canadian fighter jets in the Alaska Air Defense Identification Zone. However, the Russian and Chinese bombers did not violate any sovereign airspace.
The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) stated that this activity was not seen as a threat and that they would continue to monitor competitor activity near North America. Both Russia and China emphasized that the joint patrol was part of their military cooperation plan and was not directed against any third countries. The event was said to deepen strategic mutual trust and coordination between the two militaries.
The Russian and Chinese bombers conducted the five-hour flight without entering American or Canadian airspace, demonstrating that the patrol was a routine and planned operation. The joint patrol between the two countries aims to strengthen military cooperation and coordination while ensuring there is no threat to other nations in the region.
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